शुभकामको थालनी गर्दा दर्शन गर्नै पर्ने मन्दिर | मरू गणेश | अशोक विनायक

शुभकामको थालनी गर्दा दर्शन गर्नै पर्ने मन्दिर | मरू गणेश | अशोक विनायक

Ashok Binayak, also known as Maru Ganesh or Kathmandu Ganesh, is a revered Hindu temple located in Maru Tole, within Kathmandu Durbar Square. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha—the deity of luck and the remover of obstacles—the temple is one of the four original Ganesh shrines in the Kathmandu Valley, alongside Chandra Binayak, Surya Binayak, and Jal Binayak. The temple’s name and the name of its surrounding locality, “Maru,” meaning “does not have” in the Newari language, stem from the temple’s unique architectural design—it lacks a pinnacle (gajur), which is a common feature in traditional Nepali temples. This absence is rooted in both legend and practicality, with some stories claiming divine intervention or curse for anyone who tries to install a pinnacle.

The temple’s small size belies its immense religious and cultural importance. Entirely gold-plated and surrounded by bars for protection, the statue of Lord Ganesha is covered with silver and other metals during special occasions like Dashain, Indra Jatra, and every Tuesday—Ganesha’s sacred day. According to local legends, the site was originally home to a large Ashoka tree under which a white mouse (Ganesha’s vehicle) danced. Upon digging at the tree's base, a statue of Ganesha and a mouse was discovered, inspiring the establishment of the temple. Believers visit this site to offer 21 or 108 sesame laddus with the faith that their wishes will be fulfilled and their grief relieved.

Ashok Binayak has served both the public and royalty for centuries, playing an integral part in rituals such as coronations and coming-of-age ceremonies. Despite the 2015 earthquake's destruction in the surrounding Basantapur area, the temple remains a central place of worship, especially during Tuesdays, Ganesh Chauthi, and major festivals. The temple stands as a symbol of unwavering devotion, historical resilience, and living heritage, continuing to influence the cultural and spiritual lives of the people of Kathmandu Valley.
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Video Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction
0:21 - Trave Route
0:51 - Four Binayaks of Valley
1:17 - Architecture
2:07 - History
2:49 - Why Maru Ganesh?
3:53 - Why Ashok Binayak?
4:37 - Why no Gajur?
5:02 - Inside Ashok Binayak
5:52 - Festivals
6:10 - Royal Family & Ashok Binayak
6:51 - Closing Remarks
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